Kanafa

Ingredients and Weight:

For the dough: - 350g shredded filo pastry - 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

For the filling: - 500g cream cheese, softened - 1 cup granulated sugar - 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg - 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional) - 1/2 cup chopped pistachios (optional)

For the syrup: - 1 cup water - 1 cup granulated sugar - 1/2 cup lemon juice - 1 teaspoon rose water (optional)

Preparation Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

45 minutes

Difficulty Level:

2/5 (Easy)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine the shredded filo pastry and melted butter. Mix well to coat.
3. Form the base: Press half of the dough mixture into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Set aside.
4. Make the filling: In a separate bowl, beat together the cream cheese, sugar, cocoa powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth and creamy. Fold in the chopped nuts, if desired.
5. Spread the filling: Spread the filling evenly over the dough base.
6. Top with remaining dough: Sprinkle the remaining dough mixture over the filling.
7. Bake: Bake for 45 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
8. Make the syrup: While the Kanafa is baking, prepare the syrup. In a small saucepan, combine the water, sugar, lemon juice, and rose water (if using). Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until thickened.
9. Pour the syrup: Once the Kanafa is done baking, pour the syrup over top. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Nutritional Information:

• Serving size: 1 piece
• Calories: 400
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Protein: 10g

Dish Characteristics:

• Indulgent and satisfying
• Crispy and flaky dough
• Rich and creamy filling
• Sweet and tangy syrup

User Comments:

• "This Kanafa is absolutely delicious! The dough is perfectly crispy, and the filling is so rich and flavorful."
• "I love the combination of sweet and tangy flavors in this dish. It's perfect for a special occasion."
• "The syrup is the perfect finishing touch to this dessert. It adds just the right amount of sweetness and moisture."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• If you don't have rose water, you can substitute with vanilla extract.
• Let the Kanafa cool slightly before cutting and serving to prevent the syrup from spilling out.
• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra decadent treat.